Placido Domingo and Edgar Baitzel

The dual leadership of Domingo, right, and Baitzel helped turn L.A. Opera into an internationally recognized force in classical music. Baitzel joined the company in 2001 and died in 2007; Domingo began in 2000 and currently serves as general director.

The dual leadership of Domingo, right, and Baitzel helped turn L.A. Opera into an internationally recognized force in classical music. Baitzel joined the company in 2001 and died in 2007; Domingo began in 2000 and currently serves as general director. (Los Angeles Times)

The dual leadership of Domingo, right, and Baitzel helped turn L.A. Opera into an internationally recognized force in classical music. Baitzel joined the company in 2001 and died in 2007; Domingo began in 2000 and currently serves as general director.Los Angeles Times